Future Hockey Hall of Famer Niklas Lidstrom was a stalwart on the Detroit Red Wings’ blue line for two decades. Lidstrom’s retirement in 2012 left a void, but new Wings No. 1 defenseman Niklas Kronwall has proven more than capable of filling it.

The 33-year-old has grown into a leadership role in Detroit, but he’ll be one of few experienced defensemen at coach Mike Babcock’s disposal in the upcoming Stanley Cup playoffs. Kronwall has played in 93 playoff games in his nine-year NHL career, while the Red Wings’ other five primary defensemen have combined to play just 71.

For more on Kronwall and Detroit’s D-corps, check out the video above.